A structured engagement process commences this week to progress the Darwin Water Theme Park development, following an initial Expression of Interest (EOI) Process which closed on 22 August 2018.

Department of Trade, Business and Innovation Chief Executive Officer, Michael Tennant said that there was strong interest from the private sector in the development.

“We received seven formal submissions through the EOI process as well as informal indications of interest from a range of other parties,” Mr Tennant said.

Submissions were assessed by an Evaluation Committee made up of Chief Executive Officers of relevant government departments, advised by expert legal and industry advisors and overseen by a probity auditor.

“There were a number of submissions received that they will continue to be part of the structured engagement process moving forward,” Mr Tennant said.  

“The business case shows us that this is a commercially attractive development for a private sector investor to build, own and operate.”

“Essentially, we’ll be engaging with the proponents who put forward the best bids as part of the EOI process, plus others, to ensure we get the best possible outcome for the Territory.”

“Unlike a government procurement tender process, we’re seeking private sector investment in this development, so we need to ensure we have cast the net far and wide enough to get the best bids.”

The proponents to be engaged in the next stages include local, national and international developers and operators including a number of well-known developers of similar attractions. Further details of the Expressions of Interest received and the other proponents to be engaged through the next steps will remain commercial in confidence.

“This development has the potential to be a world-class tourist attraction that helps to increase the length of stay for tourists and creates a fun option for locals as well,” Mr Tennant said.

 A further update on the structure engagement process and the next steps will be available in the first half of 2019.

Media contact: Wendy Pritchard 0418 761 698 ​